Train Journey

Indian Railways, in collaboration with various state governments, operates many luxury trains in India. Aimed to promote tourism in the country, these offer a taste of Indian culture and hospitality to passengers. The trains are designed precisely and special attention is given to even the smallest things offered. It is one of the reasons, responsible for the hefty price of the tickets. These have pre-planned itineraries, thus cover all the cities of the country. Below is the information of 5 such carriers that can help travellers during Indian trains journeys.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

It is an eight-day itinerary, which includes sightseeing in Delhi, Rajasthan, Khajuraho, Varanasi and Agra. As it aims to take travellers on most of the erstwhile princely states of India, so the interiors and cabin are designed to give a feel of royal palaces and havelis. Travellers can relish Indian and continental delicacies in the train. After an insightful and tiring sightseeing day, passengers can take on-board spa therapies.

Palace on Wheels

It is also an eight-day luxury train tour package, which takes travellers on an unforgettable journey of Delhi, Agra and different parts of Rajasthan. The décor of this carrier is a reminiscence of the bygone era of jewel-studded maharajas and Rajput warriors. There are 14 air-conditioned deluxe coaches in the train and each of them is named on different provinces of Rajasthan.

Maharajas Express

This eight-day fascinating train journey is focused to take its guests to the many insightful attractions of Mumbai, Delhi and various historical destinations of Rajasthan. The train offers five pan-Indian itineraries, including golden triangle tour packages. The carrier has 14 guest carriages with the private attendant facility, which can accommodate 84 passengers.

The Golden Chariot

This train journey is focused on the luring destinations of the south-western part of the country. With this, travellers visit the sun-kissed beaches, world heritage sites, wildlife parks and sacred temples of Bangalore and Goa. The interiors of the carrier are inspired by the Mysore and Hoysala tradition of architecture.

The Deccan Odyssey

The train emphasises especially on the sightseeing of Maharashtra and Goa. It offers a wholesome experience of the royalty of the erstwhile Maratha kings.

Embark on any of these luxurious Indian train journeys and take a closer insight into the history and culture of the country.

There are numerous ways to explore India, a country which is diverse in every aspect. Some people make their own plans and individually search for travelling options, itineraries, accommodation and sightseeing; which at times become quite a cumbersome task and mostly leave you perplexed. A better way to make the trip hassle free is to opt for tour packages. These packages are meticulously designed keeping in mind the varied needs of all sorts of travellers. Moreover, there are packages that allow travellers to visit some of the noted tourist destinations across the country in a kingly way. These are nothing, but luxury train tour packages.

Maharajas Express, Palace on Wheels, The Golden Chariot, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels and The Deccan Odyssey are the five luxury trains that are operated by Indian Railways, in association with several state governments. These trains are epitome of opulence and comfort, and are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. Luxury train journeys are one of a kind and cover some of the most-sought tourist destinations across India, depending upon the type of tour package selected.

While Maharajas Express covers Ajanta, Mumbai, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Delhi and Agra, Palace on Wheels travels through Delhi, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bharatpur and Agra. The above two trains along with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels mostly cover the north and northwestern parts of India.

For those, who want to explore the centre of the country or willing to go down south, The Golden Chariot and The Deccan Odyssey are the two luxurious options. Bangalore, Pondicherry, Chennai, Thanjavur, Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai, Alleppey, Bangalore and Kochi are several destinations covered by the former; whereas the latter makes its way through Mumbai, Tadoba, Aurangabad, Ajanta Caves, Kolhapur Nashik and Goa.

These trains feature lavish cabins that are tastefully embellished and thoughtfully appointed to ensure a blissful journey. Offering a variety of cuisines and drinks, the on board restaurants and bars are apt settings to try local and international specialities. A few of them are available with gym facilities, indoor games, spa services and cosy lounge area. Amenities like air conditioning, telephone, television and music system are provided in ostentatious cabins.

A complete trip, aboard any of these trains, is of nearly 7 nights and 8 days, for which one has to spend a minimum of around 236000 INR. Although, luxury train tour packages are fairly expensive, the level of comfort and luxuries offered during the journey justifies its high-priced fair.

The Maharaja Express train is one of the most luxurious such railway services in the world, drawing inspiration from the lives of the Maharajas of India. From modern amenities to eco-friendly technologies, the elegant vehicle has a lot to offer. With each destination and tour, encompassing historical, natural and cultural sites, this world-class train introduces passengers to the rich heritage and vast geography of the nation. Listed below are the details of this legendary train that have made it popular among travellers.

Facilities

The rail-bound vehicle offers a royal journey to give people the taste of the lavish life of the Maharajas. It has 14 guest carriages, named after gemstones like blue sapphire, coral, diamond and turquoise. These carriages are divided into four categories – Deluxe Cabin, Suite, Junior Suite and Presidential Suite. Well appointed with modern amenities like king-size beds, LCD TVs, electronic safes, DVD players, hairdryers, air conditioners and Wi-Fi, these cabins provide a pleasant journey. The Maharaja Express train has two restaurants cars: Mayur Mahal and Rang Mahal. With butlers and the elegance of the bygone era, the restaurants serve everything from Indian delicacies to global cuisine. Guests can also unwind with a variety of spirits and wines in Safari Bar. The lounge, named Rajah Club, is equipped with armchairs and games tables.

Itinerary

The luxury train offers five journeys or tour packages: Heritage of India, Treasures of India, Gems of India, Indian Panorama and Indian Splendour. Each one of these introduces travellers to a unique aspect of the country, such as culture, wildlife and architecture. With these tour packages, globetrotters can explore the tales of chivalry, the mighty fortresses, and exquisite palaces. The Maharajas Express Heritage of India is an itinerary, which takes people from Mumbai to Delhi. This 8-day trip includes a tour of the medieval caves of Ajanta, palaces of Rajasthan and the majestic Taj Mahal. The journey also includes a trip to the Jaipur and Udaipur City Palaces, Umaid Bhavan Palace Museum, Jaswant Thada, Lalgarh Palace Museum, Junagarh Fort, Amber Fort and Ranthambore National Park.

Travellers, who want to explore the heritage and prominent attractions of the western part of the country in style, can opt for the Maharajas Express Heritage of India tour.

In association with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), Indian Railways offers luxury trains in India, whose main purpose is to promote tourism in the country. These trains are opulently designed and have defined itineraries. They cover major towns and cities in India, most of them being noted tourist destinations.

The high level of comfort along with a horde of services and amenities provided during the journey are responsible for highly priced fare of these trains. Some of the famous luxury trains that run across the country are Palace on Wheels, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, The Golden Chariot and The Deccan Odyssey. A recent addition to this luxurious fleet is Maharajas Express Gems of India.

Maharajas Express kicked off its services in the year 2010 and is owned by IRCTC. This train offers a total of 5 pan-Indian itineraries, during which it go past some of the most scenic regions of the country while covering prominent tourist attractions. These five itineraries are The Indian Splendor, The Indian Panorama, Treasures of India, Gems of India and The Heritage of India.

The total distance covered during a single train journey of 7 nights and 8 days is around 2591 km. Major destinations that the train covers during its various itineraries are Mumbai, Udaipur, Ajanta, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, Ranthambore and Delhi. The operating of the train lasts from April to October and the fare for a trip starts from somewhere around 257907 Indian rupees.

With 14 guest carriages that can accommodate around 88 guests for a single trip, this train comprises 18 Junior Suites, 20 Deluxe Cabins, 4 Suites and 1 Presidential Suite. The interiors of coaches showcase a fine fusion of royal classic decor and modern comforts. From Wi-Fi access, direct dial telephone and LCD TV to private bathrooms with shower facility, each cabin is provided with many amenities. Other features that are worth mentioning are – centralised air conditioning, writing desk, plush bedding and electronic safe.

Offering a variety of cuisines, this train boasts two restaurants, namely Mayur Mahal and Rang Mahal. In addition, it also maintains Safari Lounge Bar, which is an apt setting to relax over some sumptuous drinks.

Luxury trains in India are a great way to explore the rich culture and history of the country. Simply, go for it..!!

As a traveller, if one wants to explore India and its universally famed attractions, then nothing can be a better option than to explore it by train. And in case, the travel is via Maharajas Express Luxury Train, surely the experience is going to hike in multiples. This train takes travellers on a royal journey to some of the best places of India in a kingly style, offering scenic views on its way. The service is offered on five routes and one of them is Maharajas Express Gems of India that takes to the three most popular destinations of the country.

Delhi

Delhi, the National Capital Territory (NCT), house several magnificent monuments, such as Red Fort, Qutb Minar and Humayun Tomb. It is a hub of diverse cultures, and people from multiple ethnicities reside here. The city is known, throughout the country, for its spicy street food and ample shopping opportunities at markets like Janpath and Sarojini Nagar. The NCT also has a fully distinctive face, Old Delhi, which is impressively standing and retaining its old charm.

Agra

Agra is home to several medieval-times edifices, including the ever-popular Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This white-domed mausoleum was built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor, in the memory of his dear wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It would not be wrong to say that it the most iconic symbol of love. Other places to visit on this tour package are Agra Fort – another grand demonstration of Mughal times. The Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khas section of the fort are built by using white marbles and has intricate interiors. Apart from this, travellers can also visit Fatehpur Sikri or Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb.

Before heading to the next destination, travellers are taken on a thrilling safari in the majestic Ranthambore National Park.

Jaipur

A heritage city – Jaipur is the capital of Indian state of Rajasthan. Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur has left a great impact on international travellers with its architectural masterpieces like Amer Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal. While on the tour to this city, travellers are offered to see the elephant polo match. They can also try golfing at Rambagh Golf Club and go on a shopping spree, which are provided optionally in Maharajas Express Luxury Train tour package.

The name of Rajasthan itself evokes vivid images of magnificent palaces and majestic forts. Its vibrant culture, which is full of enchanting folklore, interesting traditions and exquisite cuisine, adds to its extraordinary charm. Scenic lakes, imposing monuments, the allure of the desert, and renowned art and culture come together to form this magical realm. To make a trip to this imperial state even better, tourists can take a ride on Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. Giving travellers a taste of a kingly lifestyle, this train goes on a memorable journey through various cities of Rajasthan along with Varanasi and Agra.

Facilities

The luxurious saloons on board are elegantly done in a style, which reminds of the era of kings and queens. Extravagant meals can be enjoyed at any of the two restaurants, namely Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal. These multi-cuisine restaurants don spectacular interiors, wherein the chefs prepare sumptuous dishes. Passengers can taste the finest wines and other beverages at the bars, adjoined to the restaurants. While travelling on the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train, guests can enjoy relaxing spa therapies in a coach, specially dedicated to this purpose.

Destinations

All passengers board the train at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi. This train makes its first stop in Jodhpur, where the famous Mehrangarh Fort is situated. The next destination on the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels journey is the city of lakes, Udaipur. Ostentatious palaces, revered temples and stately mansions are worth seeing in the city. Moving forward, passengers deboard at Chittorgarh, a city narrating the saga of the valour, sacrifice and determination of the courageous Rajputs. After allowing travellers a visit to Chittorgarh Fort, the train leaves for its next destination, Sawai Madhopur, the home of Ranthambore National Park.

Also while here, tour participants visit the impressive Ranthambore Fort and holy Amareshwar Mahadeo temple. The next destination is Jaipur, where guests get to witness the splendour of Hawa Mahal and City Palace. Day five is dedicated to a tour of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Next on the expedition, people move to the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. One of the holiest destinations in the world, Varanasi is a treasure trove of temples and Ganga ghats. The second last day of the journey includes a visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal in Agra.

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train is a complete package of sightseeing, and accommodation in utmost luxury.